Division 1.5.2 Housing and feeding conditions

The temperature in the experimental animal room should be 22 ^oC (± 3^o) for rodents and 18 ^o C (± 3^o) for rabbits. Although the relative humidity should be at least 30 % and preferably not exceed 70 % other than during room cleaning, the aim should be 50-60 %. Lighting should be artificial, the sequence being 12 hours light, 12 hours dark. For feeding, conventional laboratory diets may be used with an unlimited supply of drinking water. Mating procedures should be carried out in cages suitable for the purpose. While individual housing of mated animals is preferred, group housing in small numbers is also acceptable.